Suna East MP Junet Mohammed has strongly rebuked a section of Kenyans for politicising the appointment of Ida Odinga, the widow of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, as Kenya’s representative to the United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP).

Speaking on the floor of Parliament on Tuesday, February 25, 2026, where members were congratulating her following the defence committee’s recommendation to approve her for the diplomatic post, Junet did not hold back, telling critics, “Shame on you.”

He expressed outrage that the same individuals attacking the widely respected Min Piny on social media are also targeting Members of Parliament from the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), particularly those from the Nyanza region.

Junet emphasised that Ida Odinga is unlike those unwilling to serve the country when called upon. He called for an end to the politicisation of every Kenyan appointed to high office, stressing that Ida Odinga should be allowed to serve in the role she has been appointed to.

He highlighted her past contributions to the country, including her active participation in the fight for democracy and the sacrifices she endured. He urged the National Assembly to consider Mama Ida Odinga for the high-level appointment without political interference.

“I want to take this opportunity in this house to disabuse some section of Kenyans, Mister Speaker, who always link every appointment that is made in this country to politics,” he stated.

“Mama Aida is not looking for a salary. She’s not looking for an allowance. She is taking up this job to serve Kenya, so that she can be remembered as a woman who has served her country when she was called to that, Mr Speaker, to that job.”

Ida’s UNEP appointment

Ida Odinga’s appointment has caused ripples across the country, with some arguing that she should not have accepted the role.

Political analysts, including Professor Herman Manyora, had warned her that taking up the position could reduce her status to that of an ordinary citizen, stripping her of the quasi-goddess stature that has earned her nationwide respect.

Vetting session

Ida Odinga appeared days ago before the defence committee for vetting, an exercise that captured the attention of Kenyans. During the session, accolades and congratulations for her became more pronounced than the actual interview questions, even catching the committee chair’s and Belgut MP Nelson Koech’s attention.

Warning members to focus on the questions rather than applauding the nominee.

She has since been approved by the National Assembly, with a majority of MPs voting in her favour.